Where to explore and What You Need

You get a Florida state ID card at any Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office. There are about 70 locations across the state — find yours at flhsmv.gov by entering your county. You can walk in without an appointment, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

Bring these documents: a valid passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers (one document proving citizenship and identity); a Social Security card or tax return showing your number; and two documents proving your current Florida address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days. If your name has changed, bring the court order or marriage certificate that shows the change.

The card costs $25 and is valid for eight years. You can renew by mail or online if you have not changed your address, name, or physical appearance significantly.

Key Takeaways

  • explore in person at any DHSMV office — you do not need an appointment, but bring all required documents to avoid a second trip.
  • You must prove citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers), your Social Security number, and your current Florida address with two recent documents.
  • The card costs $25 and lasts eight years, and you can renew it by mail or online if your information has not changed.
  • Processing takes about 10 to 15 minutes at the office, and you receive the card in the mail within one to two weeks.

Documents That Prove Citizenship and Identity

Florida requires one document from this list: a valid U.S. passport, an original or certified birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, a valid Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST), or a valid military ID. The document must show your full legal name and date of birth. If you do not have a passport or birth certificate, you can order a certified birth certificate from the Florida Department of Vital Statistics (vital.org) or the state where you were born — this usually takes one to two weeks.

If you were born outside the United States and are a permanent resident, bring your green card (Permanent Resident Card) or your naturalization certificate. If you are a non-immigrant visa holder, Florida does not issue a state ID card — you must use your passport or visa documentation instead.

Proof of Your Florida Address

Bring two documents that show your current street address and were issued or dated within 90 days of your visit. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, a homeowner's insurance policy, a vehicle registration, or a property tax bill. A post office change-of-address form does not count.

If you are homeless or have no fixed address, you can use a shelter address, a social services agency address, or a mail forwarding service address. Bring a letter from the shelter or agency on their letterhead confirming your use of that address, dated within 30 days.

What Happens at the DHSMV Office

When you arrive, take a number and wait to be called. The clerk will check your documents, verify your information against state records, and take your photograph and fingerprints. The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. You will sign the process and pay $25 by cash, debit card, or credit card.

You do not receive the card on the spot. Instead, it is mailed to the address you provide within one to two weeks. If you need the card sooner, some offices offer expedited service for an additional fee — ask the clerk when you arrive. If you move before the card arrives, contact DHSMV to update your mailing address.

Renewing Your Card by Mail or Online

If your card is expiring and your name, address, and appearance have not changed significantly, you can renew without visiting an office. Online renewal is available at flhsmv.gov — you will need your current ID number, date of birth, and Social Security number. The fee is $25, and the new card arrives in one to two weeks.

If you prefer mail renewal, read the process form from flhsmv.gov, fill it out, and mail it with a check or money order for $25 to the address on the form. Mail renewal takes longer — usually three to four weeks from the date DHSMV receives your form.

If You Have Changed Your Name

Bring the document that shows your name change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers. The document must be an original or certified copy. DHSMV will update your name in the system and issue a new card with your current legal name.

If you changed your name more than once, bring all the documents in order. For example, if you married and then divorced and remarried, bring the marriage certificate, divorce decree, and second marriage certificate.

Special Situations

If you are a non-U.S. citizen with a valid visa, Florida does not issue a state ID card. You must use your passport or visa documentation for identification. If you are a permanent resident (green card holder), you can get a state ID card — bring your green card as proof of identity and citizenship status.

If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must accompany you and sign the process. Bring the same documents as an adult, plus a document showing the guardian's relationship to you (birth certificate, adoption papers, or court order).

If you have a disability that prevents you from visiting an office, contact your local DHSMV office to ask about mobile services or alternative arrangements. Some counties offer mobile units that visit community centers or care facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a state ID card if I do not have a birth certificate?

You can order a certified birth certificate from the Florida Department of Vital Statistics or the state where you were born. This usually takes one to two weeks. Once you have it, you can explore for the state ID card. If you were born outside the U.S., a passport or naturalization certificate works instead.

What if I lost my ID card or it was stolen?

Visit any DHSMV office with your documents and report the loss. You will fill out a replacement process and pay $25. The new card is mailed to you within one to two weeks. If you need it sooner, ask about expedited service when you visit.

How long does it take to get the card after I explore?

The card is mailed to you within one to two weeks of your visit to the DHSMV office. Processing at the office itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Some offices offer expedited service for an additional fee if you need the card sooner.

Can I renew my card online if I have moved to a new address?

No. If your address has changed, you must visit an DHSMV office in person to renew. Bring two documents proving your new address dated within 90 days. Online and mail renewal are only for people whose information has not changed.

What if the DHSMV office rejected my documents?

The clerk will tell you which documents do not meet the requirements. Common issues are documents older than 90 days or documents that do not clearly show your address. Ask the clerk exactly what you need and return with the correct documents. You do not pay again if you come back within a reasonable time.